The value of draft picks in the NBA is up for dispute.
With so many kids coming out so young, the chance of missing in the first round is great. Teams that find tremendous value in that round can help out their roster if they have a stud on a rookie contract. Outside of that, teams find it preferable to go after high priced free agents.
This is usually the path to the NBA title. The Golden State Warriors did well to draft Steph Curry but it was the addition of Kevin Durant via free agency that really put them on the course of dynasty. We now see the L.A. Clippers and Lakers along with the Nets trying to sign their way to NBA supremacy.
Houston is following a similar pattern although it was not through free agency. Due to salary cap restrictions, they were limited in what they could do. This led to them swinging a mega-deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
By trading for Russell Westbrook, the Rockets united two recent league MVPs. This was a combination that, ironically, worked in Oklahoma City a few year back. The Rockets are hoping for similar magic to happen between Westbrook and James Harden, two bonafide superstars.
The move is not without risks. In making the deal, Houston game up a number of first round picks in the future along with swapping picks depending upon where they finish. This could really hamper the organization going forward.
We see the NBA as a "win now" league. Players have so much control once they hit free agency that the super teams are becoming the norm. Unfortunately, there is only one team that raises the trophy at the end of the year. With the Raptors looking like a one and done, the path to the championship is wide open.
Injuries are playing a key role in 2019-2020. Durant will not suit up for the Nets while Thompson is on the shelf for the Warriors. This means that the Lakers, Clippers, and Rockets could have an easier path to the finals. The East is going to be interesting since the Nets will be short-handed opening the door for a possible Milwaukee appearance in the finals.
If the Rockets were to fail the few seasons, they could be in trouble. Without high end picks, it will be difficult to get talent. Westbrook has 4 more years on his contract meaning he carries a hefty salary as he nears his mid 30s. Harden could also become an albatross if his performance slips.
In the end, the move will be judged based upon raising the title. If Houston wins a championship in the next few seasons, the trade was well worth it.
That is a big "if".